Other European Frequent Flyer Programs - Long-haul comp upgrades as IBERIA+ GOLD?

Hi All,

I will move to a new country very soon and will be flying OW carriers much more than I currently do (hardly ever!)

I will be flying mainly IB, and was therefore considering opening an IB+ account and having my current *A and ST status matched to Ibera Plus Gold (which is now possible thanks to a status match promotion for Italy-based FFs, see http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/oneworld/1000735-status-matching-oneworld-targets-bigger-market-share-italy-pr.html for more info). Another option could be getting status matched on my BA FF account.

My question to expert IB Elite FFs is: is it true that complimentary op-ups are very frenquent for IB+ Gold FFs, even on long-haul flights? I have heard quite a few stories of Gold FFs asking check-in agents at the airport for an upgrade... and getting it - no questions asked (try that as an Elite + FF on AF or KL!!!)

Thanks for any advice! :)

Hello,
I am currently gold AA and fly oftenly IB. I do get upgrades by asking at the check-in! IB usually oversolds coach classes... Mind that this gold status is ruby OW and most OW airlines careless about it. Well at least on the route EZE-MAD.
hope it helps.

It does help, thanks chalten! And welcome to FT!

Any other experiences?!

Well, it is true that IB use to oversold their TATL flights, in case of oversold on Economy class, rules for UPG are by FF status, 1st Ib Plus Platino (Emerald) in coach would be Upg, 2nd place for Ib PLus Gold (Sapphire), I don´t know the rule after that... but be careful before 2009 they used to OP-UPG Ib employees instedad FF travellers.